The Glen to Clifton's Beaches Ramble

Experience sun, sand, and surf on an exhilarating hike from The Glen to Clifton’s four beaches, Maiden’s Cove, and Glen Beach — where adventure meets the ocean and the notorious south‑easterly wind never blows. Just around the corner, Bantry Bay enjoys its reputation as a haven, famously sheltered from Cape Town’s powerful “Cape Doctor".

Hike Details:
- Distance: 10km, circular
- Total elevation gain: +/- 250m
- Grade 2A hike
- Duration: approximately 4-5 hours, depending on length of rest breaks.
- Difficulty: Intermediate fitness required with mild rock scrambling at Maidons Cove and Glen Beach. Sure footedness required to descend lots of steps at Bantry Steps and Clifton's Second Beach.

Basic agenda:
Soon after leaving the Roundhouse restaurant, the trail leads into a shady picnic area beside the Diepsloot River. From there, we follow a footpath that climbs gradually until it meets Kloof Road. Continuing uphill along this tarred road brings us to a contour path beneath Lion’s Head. Once known as the Lion’s Head Pipe Track, the route still reveals remnants of old cast‑iron pipes along the way. The path rewards hikers with sweeping views—Clifton stretching out to the left, and the rugged slopes of Lion’s Head rising just above to the right.
After a short while, the footpath merges onto Avenue Saint Leon, guiding us toward the Bantry Steps. Descending these steps brings us down to Victoria Road. Walking along the pedestrian path while facing the oncoming traffic, we follow the road briefly until reaching the turnoff to Clifton’s Second Beach. Once there, we’ll pause to enjoy a refreshing swim in the cold seawater.
Clifton’s beaches are numbered First to Fourth from north to south, with First Beach being the furthest north. Although these beaches are generally considered safe, swimming in the cold Atlantic waters is refreshing but short-lived for most people.
The four beaches are divided by granite outcrops, forming sheltered coves that protect against wind and waves. After a short rest, we continue to Fourth Beach, proudly flying its Blue Flag in recognition of safety and cleanliness. A bit of boulder scrambling brings us to Maiden’s Cove, where the path ahead depends on the tide. We can either follow the lower trail along the sand or tackle the more technical upper route over rocky terrain. Soon, Glen Beach comes into view. From there, we cross Victoria Road once more and finish our hike at The Roundhouse Restaurant—arriving just in time to enjoy a refreshing drink.

Fee to join hike: R70.
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Reference: Your name and Bantry
Branch code: 470010

Bring along: Pack your hiking gear as you would for a normal day hike, including sturdy shoes, a bathing costume, towel, sunblock, snacks, a sun hat, and sunglasses

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accept our Indemnity as below:
The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The participant waives and releases the organizer from liability for ordinary negligence relating to the inherent risks of adventure activities. The participant agrees to follow all safety instructions, rules, and directions given by the organizer. Misbehavior, including reckless conduct, substance abuse, or harassment, may result in removal from the event without refund. The participant confirms they are physically fit and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions. The organizer may require medical clearance for certain activities. The participant acknowledges that personal accident or medical insurance is their own responsibility. The participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer against any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:
the participant’s own misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules, damage caused to property or injury to other participants due to the participant’s actions.